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Kuala Lumpur travel guide

Kuala Lumpur is the bustling capital city of Malaysia and its
showpiece of prosperity and grandeur. Unromantically, Kuala Lumpur
means 'muddy estuary', a name coined by the original tin
prospectors who arrived at the confluence of the Kelang and Gombak
rivers in 1860. The city has progressed considerably since then,
and now the river water reflects the glittering skyscrapers that
rise elegantly, competing for dominance of the skyline.

This city is a blend of old and new worlds, a melting pot of the
diverse influences of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures, making
exploring Kuala Lumpur a fascinating experience. An exploration of
Kuala Lumpur is best begun from Merdeka Square, the heart of the
city. To the southeast of the square is the modern business centre
and the bustling, colourful streets of Chinatown. The picturesque
National Mosque (Masjid Negara) and impressive Railway Station can
be located to the south, and beyond them to the west is the city's
green belt. The tranquil and lush Perdana Botanical Gardens provide
some respite from the frenetic activity of the city. The National
Museum (Muzim Negara), the National Monument, and the Malaysian
Parliament are also found on this stretch. Kuala Lumpur's most
famous landmark, however, is the stunning Petronas Towers, which
afford visitors phenomenal views of the city.

The 328-foot (100m) flagpole rising from Merdeka Square is one
of the tallest in the world, and marks the place where Malaysia
achieved independence at midnight on the 30th of August 1957. The
square is the heart of Malaysian nationalism and one of the few
places in the city where historic old colonial buildings can still
be seen. The city's colonial past is still very much alive in the
architecture of the surrounding buildings and the large field still
hosts the occasional cricket matches. The Tudor-style Royal
Selangor Club rests on one corner of the square, looking onto a
large video screen displaying religious messages and
advertisements. The Club served as a social centre for Kuala
Lumpur's British residents; its doors are now open to anyone who
can afford the membership fees. In keeping with die-hard customs
women are still not allowed entry to the bar, except by invitation.
Other buildings of interest around the square include St. Mary's
Church, purported to be the first church built in Kuala Lumpur; the
Abdul Sambad building, built in 1893 and named for one of the
sultans; the High Court building; and the old Town Hall. There are
some shops and restaurants in the vicinity and it is an interesting
area to stroll around - the square is also nice to visit at
night.

The crowded and colourful Chinatown area is a jumble of shops,
food, smells and people. The central section of Petaling Street is
closed at night to traffic and the street is transformed into an
exciting, brightly lit experience. Vendors spread their wares onto
the pavement and one can stroll along endlessly taking it all in.
Merchandise ranges from jewellery to toys and t-shirts - with lots
of fake brands on sale - and bargaining for the best prices is
accepted practice and part of the fun. There are many stalls in the
market during the day but Chinatown is a more special experience at
night, with the bright lights promising good photographs. However,
no matter what time of day you visit, be sure to stay vigilant with
your possessions as pick pockets are a problem in the area and the
crowds, noise and multitude of distractions make it easy for them
to operate. Chinatown's popularity is gradually causing a rise in
both prices and petty crime, which is unfortunate, but there is
great fun to be had, the food is always yummy, and there are
certainly still bargains to seek out. Apart from all the exciting
shopping and food, there are some great Chinese temples in the
area, for those who want to experience a touch of the culture. Kids
generally love the bright and busy area.

Transport: Putra LRT to the Pasar Seni stop and walk across to
Petaling Street, or a short walk from the central bus
station

Petronas Towers

The Petronas Towers are designed to impress and encapsulate
Malaysia's emergence as Southeast Asia's commercial and cultural
centre. Celebrated as among the tallest towers in the world and the
tallest twin towers, the building stands at a height of 1,483ft
(452m) and the two towers are joined by a skybridge extending 192ft
(58m) across. Traditional geometric principles of Islamic
architecture have been followed using modern technology, with an
inspiring result. The Petronas Towers are used as office complexes
that form part of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre Development Park.
The towers dominate the city skyline and are particularly beautiful
at night when they are lit up like a beacon. Many people will
recognise the building from the popular film Entrapment, and other
movies and programmes.

There are limited tickets per day so it is a good idea to get
there early or book in advance online. On the tour you will cross
the famous bridge and go up to a viewing platform on the 82nd
floor. The views of the city are phenomenal. There is an exhibition
detailing the development of the towers and a gift shop selling
souvenirs like books, postcards, clothes and miniatures.

Travellers should note that there have been scams involving fake
Petronas Towers tickets - tickets should only be booked at the
ticket office or through the official website listed below.

Opening time: The towers are open to the public Tuesday to Sunday
9am to 9pm (closed from 1pm – 2.30pm on Fridays), but tickets go on
sale at 8.30am.

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station

British architect AB Hubbock was inspired by North Indian
Islamic design when he conceived this magnificent railway station,
which could easily be mistaken for a sultan's palace. Spires,
minarets, towers and arches explode against the backdrop of
skyscrapers emphasising the glory of Moorish elegance. The building
is lovely and has been very well-maintained, and it is a refreshing
sight in a city which actually has very little colonial
architecture, and few historic old buildings. It serves not only as
an aesthetic vision but is in use as an important commuter station;
inside it is fairly unremarkable and looks much like other
stations. Opposite the station there is an administrative building
which is also architecturally interesting. Inside the station there
is a small railway museum on the evolution of railway technology in
Malaysia; the exhibition is intriguing for railway fanatics, but
for those not particularly interested in the technology it may be a
waste of time. The Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is ultimately more
of a landmark than an attraction - it only requires a quick walk by
and photo shoot and shouldn't occupy much of your time - but it is
a charming building which attracts rave reviews from many visitors
to the city.

Masjid Jamek, the Friday Mosque, is located where the Gombak
River flows into the Klang River; with palm trees and curved steps
leading to the water's edge, the mosque is a haven of peace and
tranquillity set among the buzz and rush of modern Kuala Lumpur.
The mosque is situated on the spot purported to be where the
founders of Kuala Lumpur fist set foot. The design was inspired by
Mogul mosques in northern India. Cupolas and minarets top the brick
walls and arched colonnades. As with all mosques, a visit calls for
conservative dress and the removal of shoes; the mosque staff at
the entrance supply women and men with appropriate attire for a
mosque visit if they have not come prepared.

If you only visit one mosque in Kuala Lumpur the Friday Mosque
is probably the best option, but the National Mosque is also worth
investigating. A modern contrast to the Friday Mosque, the National
Mosque was completed in 1965 and remains one of the largest mosques
in Southeast Asia - the vast main prayer hall can accommodate up to
10,000 people. Many of the city's Malay office workers congregate
here for the Friday afternoon prayers. The impressive 18-point
star-shaped dome represents the 13 states of Malaysia and five
central Pillars of Islam. Entry is only permitted once prayers have
been concluded. Robes can be borrowed from the desk at the mosque
entrance.

Opening time: Visiting hours are from 8.30am to 12.30pm and from
2.30pm to 4.30pm

Perdana Botanical Gardens

These beautiful gardens, established in 1888, form the green
belt of Kuala Lumpur, and the lakeside loveliness with a backdrop
of skyscrapers is reminiscent of New York's Central Park. The lush
vegetation surrounds a vast lake, with a number of romantic bridges
and plenty of space to relax, read a book, go for a walk or jog, or
socialise. Visitors can take a leisurely boat cruise to enjoy views
of the gardens from the water. There are numerous attractions
within the gardens, which incorporate the National Monument,
Butterfly House, Bird Park, Orchid and Hibiscus gardens, and
Malaysia's Parliament House situated at the northern end. There are
wonderful playgrounds for little ones and if you are travelling in
Malaysia with children a jaunt to the gardens is the perfect way to
let them blow off some steam. The water and shade make the Perdana
Botanical Gardens (formerly known as the Lake Gardens) a cool
refuge from the humidity and crowds of the city, and for those
interested in the indigenous plant life there is plenty to see.
There are numerous restaurants fringing the gardens but the best
option is to pack a picnic and spend a few hours in some green
nook.

Many of Malaysia's historical artefacts and cultural treasures
are housed in the National Museum, which is an appropriately
designed building, reflecting the Minangkabau architectural style
of the region. Ethnographic and archaeological exhibits include
life-size dioramas depicting various aspects of traditional
Malaysian life. Shadow play (Wayang kilt) displays reflect the
ancient artistry of the nation, while exhibits of traditional
weapons such as daggers (kris) and machetes (parangs) reveal the
Malaysian pride in functional aesthetic forms. The museum covers a
lot of time and subject matter and can seem discordant as a result
of the many topics and occasional lack of linkage between periods
and themes; as a result, it is a good idea to join one of the free
guided tours that do the rounds daily at 10am (in several different
languages) so that you can ask questions and get a bit more
information. Apart from the extensive permanent collection there
are always temporary exhibits. There is a cafeteria and museum
shop, and the premises are equipped for disabled visitors.
Photography is permitted in the museum but only for private use and
only with hand-held equipment. The air conditioning is a big plus
on hot Malaysian days!

One might not think that Kuala Lumpur would be a children's
playground, but on closer inspection visitors travelling with their
families will find plenty of fun opportunities to explore this
fascinating and cosmopolitan city with their children. With a
plethora of attractions, shopping malls, playgrounds and
adventurous activities, figuring out where to begin will be the
hardest part!

The Petronas Towers are Kuala Lumpur's most famous attraction
and a tour of the skyscraper is a must for children in the city;
the dizzying heights and breathtaking views over the city from the
skybridge are thrilling to kids of all ages. A visit to the Perdana
Botanical Gardens is also a great choice for the whole family; here
there are plenty of wide open spaces for children to run around and
play in, and there are lovely spots for picnics. The gardens also
house attractions like the Butterfly House and Bird Park, which
will captivate young and enquiring minds.

Other child-friendly activities include popping in to Chinatown
to look at the toys, or taking a walk through the Taman Negara
National Park and marvelling at the flora and fauna and indigenous
bird life. If the weather is simply too hot to handle, children
will enjoy any one of Kuala Lumpur's many water parks, such as the
Sunway Lagoon or the Desa Water Park. When the sun goes down, treat
the kids to the unique and unforgettable Fireflies tour, which
takes visitors down the Selangor River by boat to watch fireflies
lighting up the mangrove trees.

Chinatown

The crowded and colourful Chinatown area is a jumble of shops,
food, smells and people. The central section of Petaling Street is
closed at night to traffic and the street is transformed into an
exciting, brightly lit experience. Vendors spread their wares onto
the pavement and one can stroll along endlessly taking it all in.
Merchandise ranges from jewellery to toys and t-shirts - with lots
of fake brands on sale - and bargaining for the best prices is
accepted practice and part of the fun. There are many stalls in the
market during the day but Chinatown is a more special experience at
night, with the bright lights promising good photographs. However,
no matter what time of day you visit, be sure to stay vigilant with
your possessions as pick pockets are a problem in the area and the
crowds, noise and multitude of distractions make it easy for them
to operate. Chinatown's popularity is gradually causing a rise in
both prices and petty crime, which is unfortunate, but there is
great fun to be had, the food is always yummy, and there are
certainly still bargains to seek out. Apart from all the exciting
shopping and food, there are some great Chinese temples in the
area, for those who want to experience a touch of the culture. Kids
generally love the bright and busy area.

Transport:
Putra LRT to the Pasar Seni stop and walk across to
Petaling Street, or a short walk from the central bus
station;

Petronas Towers

The Petronas Towers are designed to impress and encapsulate
Malaysia's emergence as Southeast Asia's commercial and cultural
centre. Celebrated as among the tallest towers in the world and the
tallest twin towers, the building stands at a height of 1,483ft
(452m) and the two towers are joined by a skybridge extending 192ft
(58m) across. Traditional geometric principles of Islamic
architecture have been followed using modern technology, with an
inspiring result. The Petronas Towers are used as office complexes
that form part of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre Development Park.
The towers dominate the city skyline and are particularly beautiful
at night when they are lit up like a beacon. Many people will
recognise the building from the popular film Entrapment, and other
movies and programmes.

There are limited tickets per day so it is a good idea to get
there early or book in advance online. On the tour you will cross
the famous bridge and go up to a viewing platform on the 82nd
floor. The views of the city are phenomenal. There is an exhibition
detailing the development of the towers and a gift shop selling
souvenirs like books, postcards, clothes and miniatures.

Travellers should note that there have been scams involving fake
Petronas Towers tickets - tickets should only be booked at the
ticket office or through the official website listed below.

Address: City centre. Ticket Booth: Tower 2, Concourse
Level
Transport:
Train from Kuala Lumpur Central Station or PUTRA light
rail transit to KLCC; bus 176,178,183 or 185 from Jalan Hang Lekiu
bus stop;
Opening time:
The towers are open to the public Tuesday to Sunday
9am to 9pm (closed from 1pm – 2.30pm on Fridays), but tickets go on
sale at 8.30am.

Perdana Botanical Gardens

These beautiful gardens, established in 1888, form the green
belt of Kuala Lumpur, and the lakeside loveliness with a backdrop
of skyscrapers is reminiscent of New York's Central Park. The lush
vegetation surrounds a vast lake, with a number of romantic bridges
and plenty of space to relax, read a book, go for a walk or jog, or
socialise. Visitors can take a leisurely boat cruise to enjoy views
of the gardens from the water. There are numerous attractions
within the gardens, which incorporate the National Monument,
Butterfly House, Bird Park, Orchid and Hibiscus gardens, and
Malaysia's Parliament House situated at the northern end. There are
wonderful playgrounds for little ones and if you are travelling in
Malaysia with children a jaunt to the gardens is the perfect way to
let them blow off some steam. The water and shade make the Perdana
Botanical Gardens (formerly known as the Lake Gardens) a cool
refuge from the humidity and crowds of the city, and for those
interested in the indigenous plant life there is plenty to see.
There are numerous restaurants fringing the gardens but the best
option is to pack a picnic and spend a few hours in some green
nook.

Any time is a good time of year to visit Kuala Lumpur, where the
city's skyline is a stark contrast of towering modern structures
and charming heritage buildings; travellers who choose to holiday
here will be able to enjoy the best of Southeast Asia's melting pot
of traditional cultures and religions, as well as the modern
attractions of this affluent city.

The iconic Petronas Twin Tower, the world's tallest twin
building, is Kuala Lumpur's most striking landmark, and a good
place to start your sightseeing, as some of the most incredible
views of the city can be enjoyed during a tour of the skyscraper.
The breathtaking National Mosque (Masjid Negara Mosque), Friday
Mosque (Masjid Jamek), and even the intricately ornate,
Moorish-style Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, create an old-world
charm. There are also some interesting old buildings surrounding
Merdeka Square, the spot where Malaysian independence was declared
in 1957. History buffs will love the National Museum where they can
learn about Malaysia's culture and heritage, and enjoy a
traditional shadow play.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Taman Negara, which contains some
of the oldest rainforest in the world and spans thousands of square
miles of protected land where visitors can enjoy trekking, fishing,
river rafting, bird watching or even climbing the peninsula's
highest mountain, Gunung Tahan.

Batu Caves

Stalagmites and stalactites festoon the interior of these
impressive limestone caves, together with the Hindu shrines that
honour their deities. The caves were discovered by the American
explorer William Hornaby in 1881 and are very interesting in
themselves, but have since become a Hindu holy site, particularly
associated with the celebration of Thaipusam, a three-day religious
festival during January/February. Thousands of devotees flock to
the caves during the festival to pay penance and undergo rites of
self-flagellation that are fascinating, if a bit disturbing, to
observe. The largest of the caves, Temple Cave, is reached by
climbing 272 steps to its entrance from which a path leads to
Museum Cave, housing a dazzling display of ornamental religious
art. There is a clear view from the top to the Subramaniam Swamy
Temple, set within a large cave that extends for 262 feet (80m).
Onsite companies offer rock-climbing opportunities as well. It is a
good idea to take some water as the climb up is tiring. Those with
physical difficulties may struggle. Beware of the monkeys: they are
cute and fun to photograph but they also steal things that take
their fancy, so hang on to your belongings and keep an eye out.

Taman Negara contains some of the oldest rainforest in the world
and spans thousands of square miles of protected land. Its richly
diverse fauna and flora have evolved over a staggering 130 million
years. The best way to explore the diversity of plant and animal
life is by 'trekking' along the jungle trails. Although seldom
seen, a small population of nomadic Orang Asli people still live in
the rainforest, their makeshift shelters appearing in clearings
among the jungle growth. Guided tours to tribal villages are
available from several operators. Besides trekking, the park's
other attractions are fishing, river rafting or bird watching and
climbers can explore the Peninsula's highest mountain, Gunung
Tahan, at 7,175 feet (2,187m). The best time to visit Taman Negara
is between March and September. There are numerous canopy and
trekking tours offered but it is ideal to avoid the tours and do
your own thing to really experience this jungle world. It is easy
to self-guide in Taman Negara. Hiking the main path across the park
takes about three days and there are wooden refuges to camp in at
night to keep you safe. The jungle sounds at night are incredibly
special, if a bit unnerving for the uninitiated. There are several
luxury lodges within the reserve, but budget accommodation can be
found on the outskirts.

The fascinating seaside city of Melaka (Malacca) preserves the
historic convergence of Chinese and European cultures. Its
strategic position on the Straits of Melaka brought a tide of trade
with China, India, Siam and Indonesia. Colonial powers wrestled for
control, and much of the Portuguese influence from the 1500s is
cemented in its architecture. The most notable cultural presence
today is predominantly Chinese. Chinese merchants continue to ply
their trades in the tradition of their forefathers. Open-air
markets burst with colourful fruit, vegetable and fish produce. The
oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia, Cheng Hoon Teng, together with
the vast Chinese cemetery, support a thriving industry entirely
dedicated to the deceased.

The merging of Chinese and Malay cultures has produced a unique
ethnic group found in Melaka, the Baba-Nyonya. The remarkable
lifestyle of this micro-culture can be explored in the dedicated
Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum. Jonker Street is an attractive
thoroughfare, almost always strung with traditional Chinese
lanterns, which often hosts night bazaars and festivities on
weekends. Trips on the Malazza River are popular, and there are
many historic buildings to explore, including the Stadthuys, which
was once the seat of the Dutch administration and now houses a
history museum. There are also some interesting ruins on St. Paul's
Hill.

The Menara Kuala Lumpur (better known as the KL Tower) is among
the tallest telecommunications towers in the world, standing at
1,381 feet (421m). The tower has become a magnet for extreme sports
enthusiasts, particularly BASE (Building, Antenna, Span and Earth)
jumpers. Every year an increasing number of daredevils make
repeated jumps from the tower and allow three-second free falls
before opening their chutes, leaving spectators breathless. There
are also night jumps. Only experienced BASE jumpers, who have done
at least 120 jumps previously and have been active participants in
the sport for more than two years, will be considered as
contestants. A maximum of a hundred jumpers are selected annually.
Other events on the day include a light aircraft fly by, helicopter
roping, radio controlled aircraft displays and gliding exhibitions.
There is also BASE jumping done at the Gua Damai Cliff in the Gua
Damai Extreme Park (a 20-minute drive from the KL Tower). For more
information and some video clips of the event check out the
official website listed below.

Malaysia celebrates numerous religious festivals, but the best
known and most popular with tourists is the Hindu test of faith and
endurance, Thaipusam, held at the Batu Caves during the tenth month
of the Hindu calendar. The festival is celebrated in a number of
countries and commemorates the triumph of Murugan and his god-given
spear over the evil demon Soorapadman. This festival, involving a
procession of devotees carrying yokes (kavadi) and bearing
offerings, up hundreds of steps, is not for the squeamish. The
bearers, in a trance-like state, are often pierced with skewers
through tongues and cheeks, with hooks and spears pierced through
other body parts; at the very least they are carrying heavy burdens
a long distance to demonstrate their faith and endurance. The
procession follows a ceremonial decorated chariot drawn by
bullocks. The procession to the caves starts at the Sri
Mahamariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur and the journey of the
devotees takes about eight hours. The temple at the caves attracts
over a million pilgrims and tens of thousands of spectators for the
event. Devotees prepare themselves for the festival by cleansing
through prayer, celibacy and fasting, and many shave their heads
for the occasion.

One of the first events in the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix motor
racing season is the Malaysian Grand Prix at the impressive Sepang
International Circuit. The first World Championship Grand Prix held
at this new ultra-modern track, known for its sweeping corners and
wide straights, was in 1999, and since then the event has become
known as one of the most thrilling on the F1 Calendar. The
Malaysian weather, with the possibility of extreme heat or tropical
storms, adds extra excitement to the race. The inaugural event, in
1999, remains the most famous, because it saw Michael Schumacher
return to the sport after injury, race masterfully and help his
team mate to win, only to be disqualified on a technical
irregularity, which was later overruled! The 2001 event is also
well remembered because it was held during a storm, which made
conditions extremely dangerous. Thousands of people travel to
Malaysia for the Grand Prix and the event is accompanied by all
sorts of festivities.

A melting pot of cultures and cuisines, eating out in the
cosmopolitan city of Kuala Lumpur is a gastronomic exploration and
a treat for the senses. With so many different cuisines on offer,
served in some trendy and stylish settings, visitors will have
their hands (and mouths) full sampling the delicious fare on offer
in Kuala Lumpur.

Not all locals or travellers have the time or money to sit down
to a three-course meal so many opt to dine, quite simply, on the
side of the road. There are thousands of roadside stalls and food
bazaars catering to all kinds of tastes and budgets which are
really worth trying. Popular bites include
satay(marinated and barbecued meat, normally
chicken, beef or mutton), nasi lemak(savoury rice steamed in coconut milk)
and chicken rice and fried noodles.

Indigenous Malaysian cuisine is influenced by Thai, Indian and
Chinese cooking and the mixture produces new and exciting flavours.
Indian Muslim (Mamak) cuisine is especially fragrant, with lots of
spices, coconut milk, and curry leaves, and is one of Kuala
Lumpur's most popular cuisine choices. Malaysian Chinese cuisine is
also a favourite among both locals and visitors, and still remains
distinctly Chinese. With so many types of cuisines and types of
eateries to explore, eating out in Kuala Lumpur is just another one
of the city's fabulous attractions and adds to the authenticity of
the experience.

Bon Ton

With Chinese Malay Kampung architecture and a stylish and clean
interior dotted with antique furniture, Bon Ton is one of Kuala
Lumpur's most popular eateries and has a stylish yet laid-back
atmosphere. Bon Ton used to be located in the Lot 10 shopping mall,
but in early 2013 it moved to Central Market in China Town. Once
you've tried the sesame crusted salmon fillet with roasted mashed
potato and cream of chilli cilantro, there's no turning back. Open
daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended.

Address: 6, Jalan Stonor, Kuala Lumpur;

Bombay Palace

Specialising in North Indian cuisine, Bombay Palace is one of
Kuala Lumpur's most popular restaurants and sees hundreds of locals
and tourists dining here each week. With majestic décor fit for a
king, Bombay Palace delivers. Try the Lamb Vindaloo if you can
handle the heat or for dessert try the Dil Bahar or Pista Barfi.
Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended.

This Arabian gem, slightly incongruous in the middle of Kuala
Lumpur's Chinatown, is a popular option, especially with
vegetarians. The service is renowned for its friendliness and
traditional staples like hummus and falafel feature strongly in the
menu. Carnivores won't be disappointed either! The restaurant is
open for lunch and supper daily.

A city that never sleeps, Kuala Lumpur's streets come to life
with bright lights, bustling bars, loud music and pumping clubs
after dark. From karaoke lounges and pubs to discos and jazz clubs,
there's something for everyone to enjoy on a night out in Kuala
Lumpur. It may be predominantly Muslim, but due to the city's
cosmopolitan nature alcohol is widely available and the nightlife
is some of the best in Asia.

The city centre is the commercial and business hub by day, but
once the sun sets things heat up and some of the city's most
eccentric bars and trendiest clubs can be found along Jalan P.
Ramlee, Jalan Ampang and Jalan Sultan Ismail. Bukit Bintang is
another one of the most popular areas for night-time entertainment,
and in particular Changkat Bukit Bintang is where visitors will
find great restaurants and busy, vibrant bars, regular stops for
young and international residents.

Those looking for a quiet night on the town can enjoy a few
drinks at a karaoke bar - a staple of Malaysian society. Getting in
on the entertainment is entirely optional and it is great fun for
visitors to watch and enjoy the music. Enjoying the local theatre,
cabarets and cine-plexes showing contemporary English, Malay,
Chinese, Hindi and Indonesian movies is also popular. With so many
options the only difficult thing about heading out for a night on
the town in Kuala Lumpur will be deciding what to wear and where to
start.

Malaysia's eclectic capital is a shopper's paradise. Home to
more than 70 shopping malls and priding itself on being the retail,
fashion and electronics hub of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is certainly
a must for those looking for retail therapy while on holiday. The
capital considers its shopping experience to be one of its main
attractions, so tourists are advised to pack lightly and bring
extra luggage space in preparation for a shopping marathon!

The Golden Triangle is the city's premier shopping area and is
the entertainment and commercial centre of the city. Bukit Bintang
Street is where fashion merchandise, IT goods, designer brands and
electronic goods can be picked up at shopping malls such as Low Yat
Plaza, Sungai Wang Plaza, Lot 10 and Times Square. The Suria KLCC
is one of Malaysia's most popular shopping spots due to its
location beneath the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Midvalley's
Megamall in the Bangsar and Midvalley area is also a great place to
browse for fashionable items.

The Art Deco Central Market on Jalan Hang Kasturi is a great
place to buy arts and crafts, and is a popular stop on most
travellers' shopping itineraries, as everything from antiques and
paintings to handicrafts, clothing and quirky souvenirs can be
found. Best buys include pewter, brass and silver jewellery, wood
carvings, and pottery. After rummaging through the busy Central
Market, visitors can take a walk across to nearby Chinatown where
everything from jewellery, herbal medicines, dried food, 'designer'
t-shirts, handbags and wallets can bargained for.

Those looking for sales should plan a trip to Kuala Lumpur
between June and the end of August when the official Mega Sale
Carnival, kick-started by the Ministry of Tourism for Malaysia,
takes place in an effort to boost Kuala Lumpur as a leading
shopping destination.

Location: The airport is located in Sepang, 28 miles (45km) south
of Kuala Lumpur.Time: GMT +8.Contacts: Tel: + 60 (0)3 8776 2000.Transfer between terminals: An Aerotrain provides a free service between terminals. A
shuttle bus runs every 30 mins between the low cost carrier
terminal (LCCT) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).Getting to the city: The Express Rail Link train provides the fastest transportation
to the city centre. The KLIA Ekspres and the KLIA Transit link the
airport to Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral - City Air Terminal) and vice
versa. Trains run from 5am to 12.30am and cost about MYR 55 one
way, and MYR 100 return. At the City Air Terminal departing
passengers have the option of checking in their luggage, receiving
their boarding passes and proceeding to board the train for the
airport. Immigration clearance will be completed there. Travel time
between KL Sentral and the airport is around 28 minutes on the KLIA
Express and 37 minutes on the KLIA Transit. Many hotels will
arrange for a car to pick up guests, though this is generally more
expensive than taking a taxi. An express coach service runs from
the airport to KL Sentral for MYR 10 one way, MYR 18 return.Car rental: Avis, Hertz and a number of local car rental companies are
represented at the airport.Airport Taxis: Taxis are available; they should be paid for in advance at the
ticket counter. Prices are linked to distance and type of taxi;
there is an added surcharge between midnight and 6am. Facilities: Airport facilities include lounges, left luggage, disabled and
baby changing facilities, banks, bureaux de change and ATMs,
restaurants and bars, a post office, a pharmacy and duty-free
shops. Parking: Parking at Kuala Lumpur International Airport starts at MYR 4
for the first hour, and MYR 2-4 per hour after that. Website:www.klia.com.my/index.php?m=airport

The easiest way to get around Kuala Lumpur is on the five
different commuter train routes, each operated by a different
company. The KL Monorail serves the main shopping and hotel
districts, while the LRT serves China Town. Fares are reasonable
and the trains are frequent on all routes, operating from about
5.30am to midnight. City buses are hot, crowded and totally
unreliable. Taxis can be hailed at the roadside or found at obvious
locations outside hotels, shopping centres and the like. Metered
fares rise steeply between midnight and 6am, and drivers sometimes
raise the price during peak hours or in bad weather. Hiring a car
and self-driving is not recommended in Kuala Lumpur as the traffic
is stressful and confusing and public transport is more than
sufficient.

The climate of Kuala Lumpur is typically tropical, which means
simply that it is hot and humid all year round, with very little
variation in temperature and no distinct seasons. The mercury
hovers in the region of 86°F (30°C) all year, but can reach around
95°F (35°C). Rainfall in the city is heavy and storms occur
year-round, usually in the late afternoon. The showers often come
as a relief to visitors who are unaccustomed to the heat, and don't
generally disrupt itineraries very much - just be sure to carry a
lightweight rain jacket at all times. Another balm for the heat is
the amount of air-conditioned buildings that visitors are likely to
spend time in; Kuala Lumpur is a modern city well-equipped to
handle its tropical climate. June, July and August receive slightly
less rainfall on average and for this reason many recommend them as
the best months to travel to the city.